More About This Law
Law Summary
In New York, adultery is still a crime.Full Text of the Law
Section 255.17 of the state penal law states, “A person is guilty of adultery when he engages in sexual intercourse with another person at a time when he has a living spouse, or the other person has a living spouse. Adultery is a class B misdemeanor.” A class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine.
About This Law
The New York Times City Room blog discusses this law on March 21st, 2008. The law is rarely enforced, but about a dozen people have been charged since the 1970's. The law took effect on Septembert 1st, 1907.